PiPS Online Workshop: Demystifying the POPIA Act

This presentation will provide an in-depth introduction to the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), a key piece of legislation in South Africa designed to protect individuals’ personal data and ensure privacy rights. The POPIA Act regulates the collection, use, storage, and sharing of personal information by organizations and sets out the legal framework for how businesses must handle personal data. Throughout the presentation, we will explore the core principles of POPIA, including the conditions for lawful processing of personal information, the rights of data subjects, and the responsibilities of data controllers and processors. We will also discuss the practical application of the Act in various organizational settings, emphasizing how businesses can comply with its requirements through effective data protection measures and risk management strategies. Key topics will include obtaining consent, safeguarding data, ensuring transparency, and understanding the role of the Information Regulator in overseeing compliance. Furthermore, we will examine the potential consequences of non-compliance, including penalties and reputational damage, and the steps organizations can take to implement a robust data protection program. This presentation will equip attendees with a foundational understanding of POPIA, its implications for data privacy, and how to navigate the complexities of personal data protection in the digital age.